Indiana Fever announced that star player Caitlin Clark will not participate in the upcoming game against the Dallas Wings due to a groin injury, a decision made public just hours before the game.
This marks the second consecutive game Clark has missed; she was also sidelined during Thursday's match against the Los Angeles Sparks because of the same injury.
The Fever are set to face the Wings at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, a venue change from their usual home court at College Park Center in Arlington. This shift was prompted by heightened interest in the matchup, particularly between Clark and Paige Bueckers, the anticipated No. 1 draft pick for 2025.
Both players have significantly contributed to attracting a new generation of WNBA fans over recent years. Clark's rookie season began in 2024, while Bueckers is making her debut this season, resulting in increased ticket sales in their respective cities.
Friday's game has already sold out, with resale tickets reportedly reaching prices as high as $2,000.
In a notable achievement, Bueckers recently surpassed Clark's record, becoming the fastest player in WNBA history to accumulate 200 points and 50 rebounds.
Currently, Bueckers leads all rookies in scoring, averaging nearly 18 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game. She reached double figures in scoring during her 12th game as the Wings triumphed over the Atlanta Dream, who are ranked fourth in the league.
Clark has struggled with her long-range shooting on the road lately. However, when she finds her rhythm, it could pose a significant challenge for Dallas.
She is averaging just over 18 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game, currently ranking second overall in assists per game.
Additionally, Clark is leading fan voting for next month's WNBA All-Star Game.
